HIMACS is an outstanding material, very similar to Corian® and used extensively in the design of kitchen worktops, bathroom vanities, wall cladding, furniture and much more.
Solid Surface material, commonly known by the brand names Corian®, Swanstone, Staron®, Avonite Surfaces®, HI-MACS®, LivingStone®, STUDIO Collection®, and Wilsonart®, is a generic term for materials that are composed of two main ingredients: a natural mineral filler and a resin binder.
What is a Cheaper Version of Corian? A cheaper alternative to Corian is Hanex Solid Surfaces, which is a similarly durable and versatile solid surface material that comes in a range of colours and offers endless design opportunities. Hanex worktops are generally less expensive than Corian.
Composed of about 66% natural minerals, blended with 34% acrylic polymer resins, Hi-Macs worktops have the same luxurious appearance as granite and marble, but because of its unique reconstitution, has even greater strength, flexibility, elasticity, resilience and durability than any natural stone.
Solid Surface material, commonly known as Corian, Swanstone, Staron, Avonite, HI-MACS, LivingStone, and Wilsonart, is a generic term.
HIMACS is an outstanding material, very similar to Corian® and used extensively in the design of kitchen worktops, bathroom vanities, wall cladding, furniture and much more.
Once popular in the 1970s, have made a comeback in contemporary interior design. While Corian may not currently be in the spotlight of home design trends, its enduring durability and versatility make it a valuable choice for homeowners looking for a reliable option!
HIMACS is one of the brands under LX Hausys, Korea's largest building and decorative materials company. HIMACS is composed mainly of the natural mineral aluminum hydroxide (ATH) obtained from bauxite (aluminum ore). Other materials include acrylic resin and natural pigments.
Cost of HI-MACS countertops
HI-MACS countertops cost $20 to $30 per square foot before installation. The HI-MACS solid surface collection features a wide range of natural colors and designs, including some with a translucent quality.
Clean the entire top with a wet sponge or cloth, using a circular motion. Rinse/wipe with a damp cloth, and dry with paper towel or a soft cloth. HI-MACS® is non-porous so dirt, liquids and most chemicals sit on the surface and can be wiped away. However it is best to wipe up any spills as they happen.
In terms of durability, Corian tends to be more easily damaged by hot surfaces than natural stone. It's also more prone to scratches than surfaces like quartz and granite.
Keep nail polish remover, bleach, detergent, permanent markers or inks, and oil soaps away from your Corian® Quartz.
While Corian is a brand name, the term is commonly used to refer to any type of solid surface containing polymer and natural minerals. It is a lower-priced material than quartz and other premium countertops. This low cost is Corian's primary call to fame.
Corian comes in several finishes, from low-shine to high-gloss. Matte or satin, the least expensive, averages about $30 to $40 per square foot and is often used for lighter-colored surfaces. Semi-gloss and high-gloss are commonly utilized for darker countertop colors, costing, on average, $60 to $80 per square foot.
Corian® panels are branded on the underside and edge with a serial number and DuPont™ logo.
Corian Solid Surface
It has a seamless appearance, similar to quartz. One of its main advantages is its durability, as it resists stains, scratches, and moisture. Corian is also non-porous, making it easy to clean.
What are HI-MACS, Corian and Krion? These materials are part of a generic group called Solid Surface. The materials were developed as a practical, robust worktop material for residential and commercial applications.
HI-MACS® is the Solid Surface material of the “New Generation”. The mineral material consists of approximately one third acrylic resin (polymethyl methacrylate or PMMA) and 5% natural pigments.
Laminate Countertops
Generally the cheapest countertops available, laminate is made from layers of plastic bonded to particleboard to form a solid surface. Preformed counters with a built-in backsplash come in limited colors and patterns.
HIMACS sheet material is available in thicknesses of 4.5 mm, 6 mm, 9 mm, 12 mm and 20 mm as well as the corresponding sheet formats.
Today, Corian® is used for kitchen countertops, vanities, and shower surrounds, as well as wall cladding, toilet partitions, signage, elevator cladding and much more! A sheet of Corian® is like canvas for your imagination. After all, you can do nearly anything with it.
Scratch Resistance
Though solid surface may scratch more easily than quartz, solid surface can easily be sanded and refinished to eliminate minor surface scratches. Quartz is virtually unscratchable, and won't develop even minor scratches after years of use.
This material is designed to withstand everyday wear and tear and last for decades, usually up to 50 years, without the need for major repair or replacement. However, should it be damaged, the solid surface can be repaired in the event of minor damage.
Corian solid surfaces are made from high-quality acrylic polymers and natural minerals, ensuring exceptional durability and longevity. The use of these premium materials, combined with rigorous quality standards, contributes to the higher cost of Corian countertops.
Over time Corian can crack — sometimes even splitting at the seam where it joins to the sink or to other pieces of countertop. While you might find some DIY hacks for minimizing scratches, MARBLELIFE® professionals have the tools and skill to make scratches disappear.